No fatalities

Pilot Reports Brake Application Led to Runway Excursion in Tailwheel Airplane

Madera, CA, United States

On March 13, 2013, a LUSCOMBE 8A was involved in an aviation accident near Madera, CA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 2026-08-03Data APIEditorial standards

During a full stop landing in a tailwheel airplane, brake application caused a swerve and runway departure, resulting in substantial damage to the left wing and aft fuselage. No preimpact mechanical failures were reported.

Accident Overview

A pilot reported an accident during a full stop landing in a tailwheel-equipped airplane. The event occurred after a series of uneventful touch-and-go landings.

Event Sequence

According to the pilot, after performing several touch-and-go landings, he decided to execute a full stop landing. As the airplane transitioned from landing to ground roll, the pilot applied pressure to the foot brakes. The airplane then swerved and departed the runway.

Damage

During the runway excursion, the left wing made contact with the ground. Substantial damage was sustained to the left wing and the aft fuselage structure.

Pilot Statement

The pilot reported that there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.

Contributing factors

Directional control — Not attained/maintainedPilot

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 13 Mar 2013 LUSCOMBE 8A accident near Madera, CA?

During a full stop landing in a tailwheel airplane, brake application caused a swerve and runway departure, resulting in substantial damage to the left wing and aft fuselage. No preimpact mechanical failures were reported.

Were there any fatalities in the 13 Mar 2013 LUSCOMBE 8A accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 13 Mar 2013 involved a LUSCOMBE 8A, at Madera, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll.